Georges Michel, a respected Marlborough producer, presents their 2012 Reserve Chardonnay. This expression exemplifies the region's capacity for producing Chardonnays of both vibrant fruit and structural complexity. The 'Reserve' designation typically indicates a selection of premium fruit and a more considered winemaking approach, often involving barrel fermentation and extended maturation on lees to impart texture and depth. The 2012 vintage, now with a decade of bottle age, offers an opportunity to appreciate the wine's developed tertiary characteristics alongside its enduring primary fruit profile, showcasing its ageability and the careful balance achieved by the winemaker.
Tasting notes
The 2012 Georges Michel Reserve Chardonnay presents a luminous golden hue. On the nose, an intricate bouquet unfolds, revealing notes of ripe stone fruit, toasted hazelnut, and a subtle minerality, underpinned by hints of brioche and a delicate oxidative nuance indicative of its age. The palate is defined by its impressive structure and creamy texture, balanced by a persistent acidity that carries flavours of baked apple, lemon curd, and a touch of vanilla. The finish is long and resonant, culminating in a savoury complexity that speaks to its careful maturation and the inherent quality of the Marlborough terroir.